Makaha, HI
- About Mākaha
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Medical Facilities and Healthcare
- Universities and Educational Institutions
Mākaha is a census-designated place on the leeward coast of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. Known as the birthplace of big-wave surfing, it offers a beautiful beach park, ancient Hawaiian history, and a strong local culture.
About Mākaha
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Mākaha (Hawaiian for "fierce" or "savage")
- Status: Mākaha is a census-designated place (CDP) located in Honolulu County, Hawaiʻi, United States . It is not an incorporated city but is a community within the City and County of Honolulu, situated 35 miles northwest of downtown Honolulu .
- Regional Context: Mākaha is the last town on the leeward (western) side of the island of Oʻahu, nestled at the foot of the Waiʻanae Mountain Range . The region is known for its sunny, dry climate, rugged natural beauty, and as a heartland for traditional Hawaiian culture.
Founding Date and Age
Mākaha does not have a single official founding date. As a valley, it has been inhabited by Native Hawaiians for centuries . The area's significance grew with the construction of agricultural temples in the 15th century, marking it as an important settlement long before Western contact .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 21°28′14″N 158°12′51″W / 21.47056°N 158.21417°W
- Location Description: Mākaha is located along the Pacific coast, bordered by the ocean to the west and the Mākaha Valley to the east. It sits at the base of Mount Kaʻala, the highest peak on Oʻahu .
- Elevation: The town center has an elevation of approximately 6 to 7 meters (20-23 feet) above sea level .
- Type of Settlement: It is a small beach community and census-designated place.
Type of City and Economic Specialization
Mākaha is primarily a residential community and a tourist destination centered on its world-famous surf break.
- Tourism and Surfing: The economy is heavily influenced by tourism, drawing visitors from around the globe to its legendary waves, beaches, and surfing history .
- Cultural Preservation: The community also engages in preserving and sharing Native Hawaiian traditions through cultural programs and events .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Mākaha was 9,916 .
- Population Class: Mākaha is a small town (CDP).
- Demographic Features: Mākaha has a significantly higher percentage of Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders (26.2% in 2010) compared to most other settlements on Oʻahu, giving it a distinct cultural identity .
"Visiting Card" (Short)
Mākaha is the soul of Hawaiian surfing. Known as the birthplace of international big-wave competition, this leeward Oʻahu town offers a powerful mix of legendary winter surf, a beautiful and expansive beach park, and the most thoroughly restored ancient Hawaiian temple, Kāneʻāki Heiau. Visitors come to experience authentic local culture, watch world-class surfers, and enjoy the sun-drenched western shores.
Geography
Mountains and Ranges
- Waiʻanae Mountain Range: Mākaha sits at the base of this mountain range, which forms the western spine of Oʻahu .
- Mount Kaʻala (Mt. Ka'ala): Located directly east of Mākaha, Mount Kaʻala is the highest point on the island of Oʻahu, rising to 4,020 feet (1,225 meters) . It is a prominent feature in the landscape and a site of ecological and historical significance.
Water Bodies (Oceans)
- Pacific Ocean: Mākaha is directly adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, which defines its western border and is the focal point of its identity and economy .
- Mākaha Beach Park: This is the central beach area, known for its powerful waves and wide, sandy expanse .
Beaches and Coastlines
- Mākaha Beach Park: This is the primary and most famous beach in the area .
- Description: It is a beautiful, mile-long (1.6 km) half-moon sandy expanse .
- Famous For: It is legendary in surfing history, hosting the first international surf competition in 1954. In winter, it produces massive waves up to 25 feet (7.5 meters) or more, attracting expert surfers. In summer, the waters are calmer, making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and bodyboarding . The beach is also a nesting place for several species of sea turtles .
- Infrastructure: Facilities include restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and lifeguards. Parking is free .
- Other Surfing Spots: Besides the main beach park, Mākaha is home to several other renowned surf breaks, including Aki's Beach, the Blowhole, Bowl, Charlie's Reef, and Cornets .
National and Nature Parks
While there are no national parks directly in Mākaha, the entire area is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Waiʻanae Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean. The nearby Kaʻena Point State Park, at the northern tip of the island, is a notable natural area accessible from the region.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Mākaha has a tropical semi-arid climate (Köppen: BSh). It is located on the leeward (dry) side of Oʻahu, making it one of the hottest and driest parts of the island . The weather is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, low rainfall, and abundant sunshine.
Average Temperatures
The climate is consistently warm with little seasonal variation.
- Warmest Months: Summer months (June-October) are very warm.
- Coolest Months: Winter months (December-February) are slightly cooler.
- Typical Range: Average high temperatures are generally in the low to mid-80s °F (around 28-29°C), with average lows in the mid-60s to low-70s °F (around 18-22°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Mākaha receives very little rainfall, especially compared to the windward (northeastern) side of the island. The wetter season is roughly from November to March.
- Dry Conditions: It is one of the driest areas on Oʻahu, which contributes to its appeal for sun-seekers .
Sunshine and UV Index
Mākaha enjoys a high number of sunny days throughout the year. Due to its tropical latitude, the sun's rays are very strong.
- UV Index: The UV index is frequently high to extreme, making sun protection (sunscreen, hats, umbrellas) essential for any outdoor activity .
Wind
The area can be buffeted by strong winds, particularly from April to October .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (May-October): This period offers the calmest ocean conditions, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and family beach days. The weather is hot and dry with strong trade winds .
- Winter (November-April): This is the prime season for big-wave surfing. While the ocean is powerful and dangerous for swimming, it is the best time to witness the world-famous surf competitions and the incredible skill of professional surfers .
- Best Time to Visit: The best time depends on your goals.
- For swimming and sunbathing, visit in the summer.
- For watching big-wave surfing, visit in the winter.
- The shoulder months (April/May and September/October) often provide a balance of good weather and smaller crowds.
Landmarks and Attractions
[Kāneʻāki Heiau]
- Full Name: Kāneʻāki Heiau
- Description: This is Hawaiʻi's most thoroughly restored ancient heiau (Hawaiian temple) . It was excavated by Bishop Museum archeologists in 1970 and is now open to visitors.
- History: It originated in the 15th century as an agricultural temple dedicated to the god Lono. About 200 years later, it was converted into a luakini (a temple for human sacrifice) dedicated to the god Kū. This change signifies that Mākaha had grown to support a population large enough to have its own chief .
- Location: It is located in the Mākaha Valley.
- Visitor Information: The heiau can be visited from Tuesdays to Sundays .
[Mākaha Beach Park]
- Full Name: Mākaha Beach Park
- Description: More than just a beach, this park is a landmark in the history of surfing. Its powerful winter waves have made it a mecca for surfers since the 1950s .
- Significance: It was the site of the first international surfing competition, the Mākaha International Surfing Championships, established in 1952. This event put Hawaiʻi and big-wave surfing on the global map .
- Modern Use: Today, it remains a hub for surfing culture and hosts annual events like Buffalo's Big Board Contest, honoring local surfing legend Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana . It's also a beautiful spot for swimming in the summer and sunbathing year-round.
[Buffalo's Big Board Surfing Classic]
- Full Name: Buffalo's Big Board Surfing Classic
- Description: An annual surf contest held at Mākaha Beach Park, typically in February. It is named in honor of legendary Mākaha lifeguard and surfer Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana, who made Mākaha the home of the world's first international surf meet in 1954 .
- Significance: This event celebrates the unique, old-style surfing culture of Mākaha, featuring competitions on huge, traditional surfboards and outrigger canoes . It is a key part of the town's cultural identity.
Transport
Main Highways and Roads
- Farrington Highway (State Route 93): This is the main road through Mākaha, running along the coast. It is the primary route to and from the town, connecting it south to Waiʻanae and north towards Kaʻena Point. The town's main beach park is located at 84-369 Farrington Hwy .
- By Car from Honolulu: To reach Mākaha by car, take the Kamehameha Highway (Route 99) north past Pearl Harbor, then turn onto Farrington Highway (Route 93) west. Follow Farrington Highway north along the coast through the town of Waiʻanae to reach Mākaha .
Public Transportation
- TheBus: Mākaha is served by Honolulu's public bus system, TheBus.
- Route C (Country Express): This is the most direct option from Honolulu, as it stays along the coast .
- Route 40: This bus provides local service, going up Mākaha Valley Road to the golf courses and then down Kili Drive to Mākaha Beach Park . Buses depart daily from the Ala Moana Shopping Center in downtown Honolulu .
Nearest Major Airport
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL): The primary airport serving the island of Oʻahu is located in Honolulu, approximately 35 miles (56 km) southeast of Mākaha . From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take TheBus to reach Mākaha.
Medical Facilities and Healthcare
Kaiser Permanente Pu'uwai O Makaha
For residents of Makaha requiring skilled nursing and rehabilitation services, the Kaiser Permanente Pu'uwai O Makaha facility is a key local resource . Located nearby at 84-390 Jade St, Waianae, HI 96792, this is an affiliated skilled nursing facility that provides specialized care . It accepts various insurance plans, including HMO, Senior Advantage, and Medicaid (QUEST), making it an accessible option for many in the community . For those needing outpatient mental health services, the Makaha Outpatient Clinic, operated by the State of Hawaii's Department of Health, is located at 84-1170 Farrington Highway, Suite A, Waianae, HI 96792 .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Schools and Universities Nearby
While Makaha itself is a smaller community, the broader Waianae Coast and the island of Oahu offer a variety of educational opportunities. A list of SEVP-certified schools provides a glimpse into the educational landscape of the area. In the nearby town of Waianae, there is the Le Jardin Academy located at 917 Kalanianaole Highway, Kailua, which is certified to enroll F-1 and M-1 students .
For higher education, residents and students in the region have access to several prominent universities in Honolulu and other parts of the island, all certified to accept international students. These include:
- Hawaii Pacific University (500 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu)
- University of Hawaii at Manoa (Honolulu)
- Chaminade University of Honolulu (3140 Waialae Avenue, Honolulu)
- Brigham Young University-Hawaii (55-220 Kulanui Street, Laie)
The list also includes well-regarded preparatory schools in Honolulu, such as the prestigious Punahou School (1601 Punahou Street, Honolulu) and Iolani School (563 Kamoku Street, Honolulu), which are certified for F-1 and M-1 students, indicating their capacity to enroll international students . Additionally, the John A. Burns School of Medicine (651 Ilalo St., Honolulu) is a key institution for medical education on the island .